Peace and Development Studies, Minor (0027)

  • Western Sydney University Minor Code: 0027

Previous Code: SM1102.1

Available to students in other Western Sydney University Programs:  Yes.  Check that your program has the available credit points required to complete the subjects in this field of study. Any requisite requirements must also be met. Consult your Program Advisor for further advice.

The Peace and Development Studies minor is concerned with methods for promoting peace, human rights and sustainability. It involves a critical analysis of inequalities of power and opportunity that lead to international and local conflict, social dislocation and environmental degradation. Students will examine the structural causes of racist and gendered violence, environmental crises, forced migration, poverty, resource conflict and inter-generational inequity. The inter-related network of solutions includes empowerment and self-determination, sustainable living, constructive development, peacemaking and peace building. These require understanding of the theories and method for identifying, measuring and resolving conflict and environmental degradation. The assumptions and failings of traditional development practice are critically assessed. Students will engage social theory within an interdisciplinary and applied framework, at local, national and international levels. The major is comprised of three fields:

  1. structural inequality, social justice & human rights;
  2. development and sustainability;
  3. peace and humanitarian responses/actions.

Location

Campus Mode Advice
Parramatta Campus - Victoria Road Internal Dr Melissa Phillips
Penrith Campus Internal Dr Melissa Phillips

Minor Structure

Subject Title Credit Points
Select four of the following:40
Autumn Session
Human Rights, Peace and Development
Issues in World Development: Rich World, Poor World
Sustainable Futures
Spring Session
Development and Sustainability
Peace-Making and Peace-Building
Indigenous Cultures: A Global Perspective
Alternatives to Violence
Peace & Development Project
Total Credit Points40